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Little kids bring so much joy to your life, but it's no secret that they also have the tendency to distract new parents from their hobbies and interests and, well, basically everything other than their toddler. While some of this re-prioritization is expected and necessary, there's no reason why you can't share your passion for the trail with your kids at a young age. Enter a handy toddler carrier for hiking, which allows you and your children to get out there together, even before they can lace up their first pair of hiking boots.
As you can most likely understand, a secure carrier for your toddler isn't an area where you want to cut costs. With that in mind, you should expect to spend a bit of cash on a high-quality product, but you can still get some great value for one that'll keep your kids safe. Plus, the best carriers are generally very well-constructed, so you should expect one to last for however many kids you end up having.
So, without further ado, here are the five best toddler backpacks and carriers to help you bring your little ones out into the woods with you. We prioritized carriers that are well-made and well-loved by fellow hiking parents, so you can set out assured that you'll get your money's worth with any of the following selections.
1. Best Overall
Deuter Kid Comfort Active Child Carrier - Amazon, $230.64
Deuter makes several of the best child carriers on the market, and this one is arguably their best. The build is fairly simple and minimal, which helps keep its weight to a minimum while still providing plenty of comfort and stability for your little passenger. The adjustable straps are perforated to encourage ventilation, and the safety harness system is easy to use. One enthusiastic mom summed up the benefits of it perfectly in her five-star review: "I've been using this carrier for a year now and I love the freedom it gives me to take my girl on adventures!"
2. Another Higher-End Option
Osprey Poco LT Child Carrier - Osprey, $285
Osprey is the maker of some of our favorite backpacking packs, and they don't disappoint when it comes to child carriers either. The Poco LT comes in three different color options, and has a lightweight build that ensures comfort for both parent and toddler. The carrier comes with a built-in sunshade, plus multiple zippered compartments and even a drool pad that you'll be thankful for.
3. A More Budget-Friendly Choice
Chicco SmartSupport Backpack Carrier - Amazon, $115.98
Chicco might not have the name-brand recognition of some of the other products in this list, but that also means that it comes in at a much more favorable price point. And, despite the discount, the SmartSupport carrier still comes with a lightweight aluminum frame that doesn't skimp on security. The pack is built with padded lumbar support, plus adjustable, padded shoulder and waist straps. According to one recent five-star Amazon review, the pack is "comfortable, lightweight, and perfect for hiking!"
4. A Versatile Carrier with Plenty of Pockets
Luvdbaby Premium Baby Backpack Carrier for Hiking with Kids - Amazon, $179.90
If you're the type of parent who likes to bring any and all possible baby supplies you'll need, this Luvdbaby carrier is perfect for you. In addition to the padded cocoon that houses your toddler under a sun visor, you'll have multiple pockets to stuff, and one of them is insulated to keep a bottle cool. Plus, the pack even comes with a foldable diaper changing pad, so you'll truly be prepared for anything.
5. A Large, Luxurious Child Pack
Kelty Journey PerfectFIT Elite Child Carrier - Kelty, $339.95
To close things out, the Kelty Journey PerfectFit Elite is one of the best packs you can get, assuming that you're willing to foot the steep bill for it. There are nine different storage pockets adding up to 26 total liters of storage, and your toddler will likely sleep through your whole hike in the cozy, shaded, and ergonomic seat. There's also a 5-point safety harness and a padded aluminum roll cage, so you can feel a little better about heading out on uneven terrain.
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